8 Common Saab 9-3 Problems (B207)

[@TechCars]

Compared to many other brands and models it's a very reliable and easy to fix. What makes it easy is the great community we have around this brand., YT, FB and so on. Live long and prosper SAAB community ;-) BR SaabCars

[@AutoAutopsy]

I certainly agree :)

[@barnhouseboiz9641]

Reliability is ehh and they're a bitch to work on

[@SubLimation7]

I have 3, 2003 9-3 with 220k, 2009 9-3 tuned to stage 3 with 160k, 2008 9-3 with ~200k, and they all run great. But I actually change fluids... like transmission fluid every 6 months drain and fill. They are definitely easy to work on though, all you need is someone with a tech 2, and you can get "questionable" ones for cheap.

[@coleholden8241]

I have a 2006 Saab 9-3. Only thing that’s wrong with it is the ignition coils going out. It has 140k miles so it’s okay in my books, great car. $100 each for ignition coils though 😱

[@marcmcclinchy9774]

Speaking of a Saab community, I'm about to pull my motor apart because it seems to have a bad head gasket , so if you know anywhere I can get some advice or possible directions how to don't right I'd love to know before I just start tearing it apart

[@davidaustin1488]

Got mine at 105k miles and now has 130k. Besides normal wear and tear items like tires, oil etc, I have replaced: Two front shock towers headlight bulbs twice AC climate control twice lower ball joints rear taillight bulbs

[@AutoAutopsy]

Wow, thanks for sharing! Those headlight bulbs are annoying! LOL

[@toms5996]

Great video for people who have experienced these issues. For some reason I have not experienced any other problem other than AC. ( I live in Finland so temperatures change from -30C to +30C). This summer - that we have have had 25C since May and now 30 all the time I thought the AC couldn't keep up with that - but next Monday I will have it charged up with new coolant.

[@AutoAutopsy]

Awesome :) I feel your pain with AC; it gets quite hot in Arizona over the summer!

[@zackcinicola9116]

I recently bought an 08 Saab 93 and it recently developed a cold start issue like you said, I had no idea what was causing it up until this point so thank you

[@AutoAutopsy]

Good luck :)

[@purpleflight9083]

Peeling AC buttons let the interior down and drive me insane! Nice to know I can replace. Cold start was an issue for me too , summer months no problem . Brought my black 93 14 months ago with 73k on the clock, had been standing so had some faded sills and around wing mirrors which was easily fixed , so far spent twice what I paid for it but wouldn't part with it for the world ! Do get some shocked faces when some "guy's " realise it's a woman driving ;)

[@BLA9235]

Have a look at the fuel pressure regulator for issues with cold starts and in general issues upon starting the engine, sudden engine stop at red lights, miss fires, not starting after 5 sec or more, engine starts after 2 start attempt or jumping when reversing after cold start. Replace after 10000km, Cost about 50 dollars. Easy to replace by yourself about a 10 minute job

[@DerekChabrow]

also vapor canister purge valve, water pump especially on the B207s, the electronic throttle body, and the turbo solenoid valve, I had all of those go out on almost all of my Saabs

[@AutoAutopsy]

Thanks for adding these, Derek

[@DerekChabrow]

@@AutoAutopsy maybe your next video, but you may want to consider doing a vid on basic mnt for saabs, especially those past or approaching 120k, if you look at KBB recommended 120k mnt list for saab 9-3, it is rather interesting and quite long.

[@deedowdell5347]

First off great video. I feel lucky base on what I have read so far. I have 175,000 miles an the only some minor problems. Of course the normal wear and tear with the buttons peeling. My most troublesome is the that my head lights go out every 90 or so. The power streering is leaking, burn a little oil and some sweeking sometimes. This care has proformed great and it still looks new. I believe in P.M.'s I tend to stay on top of the maintenance to prevent things from getting out of hand.

[@AutoAutopsy]

Awesome :)

[@sawlewicz]

I would say everything breaks, but not to much money to fix, engine runs strong still, turbo has its bad and good days. fun car and takes corners better then any other car i drove(invest in good rubber!) Saab 9-3 2.0L 215000KM

[@SW-ni8ls]

@Jimmy Geyer how many miles have you done before these problems started to appear

[@codysray2616]

Just wish the metal key could also start the car that would be dope. Love the 9-3 awesome video brother.

[@AutoAutopsy]

thank you!

[@elliottmack1887]

I guess im randomly asking but does any of you know of a way to log back into an instagram account..? I stupidly forgot my password. I would love any tips you can offer me.

[@jeremiahjase6041]

@Elliott Mack Instablaster :)

[@elliottmack1887]

@Jeremiah Jase I really appreciate your reply. I found the site thru google and Im in the hacking process now. Seems to take a while so I will reply here later with my results.

[@elliottmack1887]

@Jeremiah Jase it did the trick and I actually got access to my account again. I'm so happy:D Thank you so much you really help me out :D

[@dariocavallari1999]

dont forget about the typical cracks in the leather drivers seat

[@AutoAutopsy]

That's just a wear and tear thing that happens from sun damage, use, and age. All leather seats have that problem

[@andrewlaw]

@@AutoAutopsy And if you feed the seats with leather conditioner every 6 months it largely doesn't happen. It takes 15-20 mins and costs a couple of bucks of conditioner.

[@twisted.illusions]

Lack of care/maintenance.

[@fixitup2193]

@@twisted.illusions the sun will kill leather regardless.....

[@klein2042]

My mother’s Acura has that problem worse than my Saab. I think that’s just leather in general

[@markbabie3167]

Had my Saab 2005 convertible since 2007. I have replaced all of those items mentioned. Had 38,000mi when I bought. Currently has 150,000 mi and going strong. I believe the previous owner did not take care of it. I've used "BG" fluid additives since I bought it and two transmission flushes using same product. My Saab performs better now than ever before. Just love my Saab.

[@AutoAutopsy]

Nice :)

[@richardburchett]

Thanks for this. I had a clockspring break. It’s inside the CIM. The cim still recognizes the key and the car will start, but the electrical to the steering wheel is not working, so no horn or airbag. The import mechanic told me the entire CIM will have to be replaced and reprogrammed.

[@AutoAutopsy]

sounds about right, sorry to hear...

[@calebsengineeringprojects6202]

I've never tried taking a CIM apart. Is the clockspring not something you can replace?

[@richardburchett]

@@calebsengineeringprojects6202 I have since found a clockspring that can be replaced without having to replace and reprogram the CIM. Good outcome. It was just an issue of wiring coming loose inside the clockspring.

[@markgolding1610]

i have an 09 saab 93 1.8t sport combi, i have done almost 20,000miles in 9mths of ownership. Nothing so far has failed,. it drives remarkably well. I have now modified the motor....bigger turbo, induction kit, exhaust, re-map..........Awsome. oh, bigger brakes also.! has now a total of 87k miles. Will keep you updated.

[@AutoAutopsy]

awesome!!

[@terrylaven]

Just wanted to add a comment about the "ticking" sound re: the recirculation motor problem. I had this in my 2007 9-3. I took the motor apart and found broken gear teeth inside the motor housing - so it wasn't a problem with the motor itself - it was broken teeth on the main gear inside the case. My fix was to remove the gear and "reclock" it. It's a circular gear, but contact is made only on a portion of the teeth - so I took the gear out and rotated it so the portion with the broken teeth doesn't make contact with the other gear.

[@AutoAutopsy]

Thanks for sharing!

[@dallan7740]

I also did this. Total price of the fix was the cost of a drop of superglue.

[@TBezak]

got same problem, need to locate this motor housing, how to get to it?

[@NickKokkinos]

Do you have any documentation/instructions/video on how to access it (and fix it) ?

[@TBezak]

..?

[@chesterthemlester9989]

1.9 tdi 2008 (UK) owner checking in. Thank you for your content

[@AutoAutopsy]

Happy to help 😁 thanks for the support

[@waverunner7063]

#1 worst problem with the B207 is the bad intake valves for the 2007-09 years. GM fucked us bad. Over $2k to fix. There is also the coil springs that break. I replaced my front two. Brake vacuum pump and oil level sensor are now both leaking oil. It was so reliable until these sudden flurry of problems at 90k miles.

[@AutoAutopsy]

Careful saying that. Those valves are only on 07-9 cars

[@waverunner7063]

Still a disaster. I'll modify my comment. I hate GM forever because of it among other reasons. BTW my 9-3 still rides really well for its age.

[@cooksie0612]

This is pretty spot on! only thing you could have mentioned was window regulators lol. Replaced 2 in my 08 and they broke within a week...

[@davidstorm4015]

If you want to worry about window regulators, get an Audi TT, they fail on almost very car

[@AutoAutopsy]

Yeah, I had one go bad on the passenger door!

[@ashleyreardon9356]

Door lock actuators, ignition switch (I’ve had to do one one every 9-3 I’ve had), and water pump should all be added to this list hahaha

[@AutoAutopsy]

Thanks for sharing!

[@ThePrissy11]

This guy is great. Has a terrific you tube channel. I have a 2008 Saab with only 42,000 miles. Love the car and trying to keep it up. At the moment, I am working on the re-conditioning of the plastic stuff around the car. Unfortunately, it is not garaged. Getting a rip in the driver’s front seat trim repaired too. Not cheap.

[@AutoAutopsy]

Thank you Bert :) Good luck with your saab and it's repairs!

[@billj3cub]

I found a place on eGay, esaabparts, that sold me a brand new OEM drivers seat bottom leather cushion for my nice 2009 for $180. It is not an Aero and no front map pocket even though my stock leather had a map pocket I don't miss it. Not too hard to install. For my my 2006 with 240k miles I just found a matching passenger seat that looked like no one ever sat in it and switched the leather over to the drivers side. It took a little custom cutting of holes for the power seat controls but once I put it all back together you would never know it came from the passenger side. I have done a number of passenger/driver upholstery swaps and they all came out very nice. Buying a passenger seat can be a good way to go because they are always in better shape and the demand, and therefore price, is lower because... they are always in better shape!

[@codysray2616]

An issue I have seen with mine (aside from the fuel sensor) is many times I start the car and have to give it gas right away just to get going. It is often times not a crispy start. Might just be me, but I do have a little nerves going almost every time I start it just based off the feel of it and how it sounds when it starts. lol.

[@AutoAutopsy]

is it a 07-09? could be intake valves as i've heard that's a common symptom of those going back on those model years; not certain by any means tho so take that with a grain of salt

[@doug900S]

Yes! The clicking recirc servo is annoying! Luckily, I have never had a CIM problem on my 07, or 10 9-3. I do have a tech2 so I’m ready! OEM coils are the best! My intake valves are rocking my 07, but good on my 2010. I understand that Saab had a surplus of bio-diesel valves that they decided to get rid of and put them into the 9-3 petrol cars. They can’t take the heat of petrol, I understand. My next head gasket job I will replace the intake valves. Great video, Jacob! Hope to see you in a future Saab convention if it’s near me in NY state, someday!

[@petesautoexpressionsinc.5135]

Good job !! We to ; love Saab & try hard to keep as many as we can alive

[@AutoAutopsy]

yes! :)

[@TheWidowsSon0357]

You have a shop?

[@GnastyPaul]

I have an ‘04 9-3 with 150,000 miles on it and I have experienced nearly all these issues in the comments. Amp1, broken heated driver seat, door lock issues, key issues, broke my shark fin antenna, cracked leather in my driver seat only, peeling buttons, taillight harness burning up, vacuum lines coming loose, CD player stopped working, changing the time on the clock is extremely difficult because the knob doesn’t work as it should, and most recently throttle body issues. Despite its many issues I’ve always loved the car, but I must admit the issues are rather annoying. I’ll certainly appreciate when I get a new daily that has less annoyances with an equally luxurious and sporty feel.

[@GnastyPaul]

forgot to add window switches as well lol. Makes going through drive-thrus a pain in the ass

[@AutoAutopsy]

Well, glad you've still enjoyed it through the repairs! haha

[@333cparker]

Still have that SAAB ? LOL. if not what have you replaced it with?

[@brianfrancis8821]

Thank you this was very helpful and gave me a lot of info of what I needed to know

[@AutoAutopsy]

Glad it was helpful!

[@boogeymanb3748]

Electric window mechanism drivers door

[@AutoAutopsy]

I had an issue with the passenger a while back...pain to fix!

[@trevordvids]

Gotta fix mine rn before I sell it....I'm gonna miss her.

[@DesertSessions93]

They couldn't have made it more difficult to remove and fix could they?

[@CardboardSliver]

Rear door lock actuators

[@Endzeit2014]

same with my E46(bmw), my best machine was the B234R(aero)with the best seats in the world:-)

[@oadalsteinsson]

Excellent review of Saab 9-3

[@AutoAutopsy]

Thanks!

[@bob-china]

OK so now I'm addicted to your channel, thanks for completely making me a couch potato. :) Seriously I love your videos. Looked at a used 2006 9-3 LInear yesterday being sold by a non-Saab (obviously) dealer with 148K km. After starting the car, "Locking System Failure" message on dash (notification center above radio). Dealer, in wanting to sell car, said it's "just a switch that needs to be reset", however checking videos here it seems like it involves taking off the door panel and fixing it that way. So... should I avoid this car? He's asking too much money anyway but the car drives spectacularly. Thank you.

[@AutoAutopsy]

haha, thank you for the comments! could be a simple door lock! if he's asking too much, consider waiting on another car. they come up cheap very often!

[@CTR207]

Possible Engine rebuilds a “minor problem “ LMAO .

[@dragonsink6988]

Must not know shit about cars if you think the rebuild is a major problem since these are damn near the easiest cars to rebuild lol

[@Los_Chanchulleros]

That was epic, a "minor problem" said by a teenager who has never disassembled an engine from a transmission.

[@dw-ie2my]

That’s not what he said but ok

[@eziux]

Had the problem with CIM myself, it somehow shorted out when I disconnected my battery to charge it after it died during cold season (-25 C). Total pain in the ass, car ignition locked up, steering wheel locked up, had to tow it to a repair shop to replace CIM for a total of around 300 euro. Was parked in a tight parking lot when it all happened, and since steering was locked up I had to spot the parking lot for few days before I could actually call a tow guy.

[@AutoAutopsy]

Oh no :( sorry to hear about that..

[@randaldandal4894]

No malfunctioning door lock???

[@AutoAutopsy]

Haven't heard of that yet..

[@CardboardSliver]

Oh goodness yes. My passinger door is 50/50 when wanting to work. Same with driver rear. Passinger rear is dead, so it's manual lock/unlock only.

[@jamestompkins7816]

tom soder has happened on mine too hahaha

[@rythmn2818]

Happened to my pops car lmao

[@KohanaCoyote]

I’ve heard of that issue and my drivers door will only do it from time to time so I’m keeping my eye on it

[@jetsamperes5762]

I have a 2007 9-3 60th w/ 144k mileage. Front springs/struts have busted several times - (Detroit roads really really suck). I believe that was a recall on some model years but not '07. I had the steering pump and vacuum seal issue, the fuel level sensor. Have to replace halogen headlight lamps 2x a year. Overall its been a great car and is serviced regularly. Almost 12 years old and has most of its factory parts. The first '07 9-3 I leased was a complete lemon though. Had to replace the spark plugs with every oil change. That car left me stranded twice. First time was towed back to dealer with 1,500 miles on it. Dealer could never find the cause of why they would foul out so frequently. Blamed cold starts, bad fuel, user error (it was my 3rd 9-3). Got rid of it at lease end & bought the current 9-3 in 2009. Never had that issue again.

[@AutoAutopsy]

It was probably your coil packs, not the spark plugs

[@CrystalFusionV2]

My APC valve on my B207R failed and left me with (0,3 bar or 4,5 psi) of boost. Also had some issues not getting the coolant up to temperature. Turned out to be the temperature sensor in the engine that was faulty. Easy fixes but still kinda annoying.

[@AutoAutopsy]

Thanks for sharing!

[@stevengodbey5831]

The intake valves are cheap but require the top half of the motor to be rebuilt, very expensive. My local Saab specialist says it would be a recall if Saab existed today. I've had some these issues. Overall very reliable for a car that is ten years old such as mine.

[@AutoAutopsy]

I agree!

[@OtayBuckwheat]

2005 up has cheap valves so find an 04 head to rebuild.

[@Andreas16375]

Seatbelts not retracting back after use, Passenger window malfunctioning, Key not recognized issues, electrical issues, AC problems and then some I loved my saab 9-3 but ditched it as i was getting tired of constantly having to deal with bs

[@AutoAutopsy]

Thanks for sharing; unfortunately it sounds like yours was abused before you bought it

[@Andreas16375]

Auto Autopsy it probably was, But whenever i’d search up any issue i was having i always found several sources saying it was a common issue, I feel like there should be a limit for how many common issues a car can have

[@spectralcav]

A tip for the seatbelts if they don't retract - pull the belt all the way out and spray along the length with trim restorer (silicon spray stuff for making black bumpers etc look black again). They'll work like new. Probably best to leave them overnight before use in case you get any on your clothes though!. Even better, pull the b-pillar trim off and clean all the dust and cr*p out from around the mechanism and then also do the above.

[@RyanSalinger]

It's like you've seen my 2008 9-3 history! I had failures with the yellow coils, the intake valves were SO bad in my car they chipped and broke resulting in not just a valve job as was originally though, but my entire engine needed to be replaced. Here we are three years later and my fuel level sensor is dead (I do it by mileage) and will need to get it replaced as well as a mystery stutter upon acceleration which needs attention. I love Saab but man, it's costing me a fortune!

[@AutoAutopsy]

Haha, wow! By 2008 they had phased out the yellow top coils; how did yours end up with them?

[@superdude7459]

Wow sorry to hear that man 😯

[@fixitup2193]

just picked up an 03 with failing power steering pump seal... and clicking steering rack u joint already replaced most of the plastidip buttons

[@AutoAutopsy]

Nice!

[@neilharbott8394]

Suffered from the intake value issue, my mechanic found the issue when he was running a compression test. Google that night suggested the problem. We ended up replacing all of the intake values, as they were all showing similar signs of wear. This tends to manifest around 100K miles, but depending upon temperature could be +/-20k. One of my earlier Saabs also had the power steering problem, though frankly I hadn't noticed any issue until the car failed its government test. I had the steering fluid topped up that night, passed the test first thing the next morning and the sump was dry by day end - believe me I noticed it then, having enjoyed a few hours of power assisted driving!

[@AutoAutopsy]

Wow, thanks for sharing all of that!

[@neilharbott8394]

No worries - have had 5, 4 leases, and this last I've owned from new. Was lucky enough to attend the Saab Aero Academy the last year it ran and was opened to all Saab owners, not just the Aero owners. You could say I'm a fan.

[@rjbflies1570]

Do you recall how much it cost to replace the intake valves? I'm likely going through this same issue now... :/

[@akdoc2003]

We just identified the tensioner problem, and now I think I experienced the catastrophic problem to which you referred. :(

[@AutoAutopsy]

:(

[@KohanaCoyote]

I have a 2008 9-3 (B207R) and it’s my 3rd Saab. I’m at 116,000 miles and overall and having little to no issues. I am keeping an eye on compression, but have had NO issues when cold. I am having a hot start issue. For example, the car gets up to temperature while I arrive at my destination, such as a store or a restaurant. I can back to the car within half an hour (it only does it when car is off for 20-40 min, yes that short of a window) It will crank over fine but then die. If I give it a little bit of gas it will spotter slightly and then it will stabilize. I want to say it’s a crankshaft position sensor, or fuel pressure regulator. It strikes me as very weird that it only does it within that window of time, any shorter and it will start just fine in any later it’ll start just fine. It’s not bothering me a lot but it is kind of annoying

[@AutoAutopsy]

Maybe; how about your alternator...? Just a guess though

[@historyofsaabcars3192]

You better turn that frown upside down or I will cry :(

[@AutoAutopsy]

:( --> :)

[@historyofsaabcars3192]

Auto Autopsy :)

[@bobvansand6346]

Thanks lot! My warm air regulation of my 2000. Saab 93. Airstream is at my feet, the inner rod has no contact with the inside, easy fix? Thx bob I dont like the plasticisch GM STUFF.! My saab 900 has much better materials! Like saab 93 overall though, as well,

[@radadaniel2726]

Hi there, please I have saab 93 from 2004 and I have one problem, she show me in display "cooling liquid is low refill now" I don't know how, and and the heater no working when I put for hot...please explain me what can I do , thank you

[@Freak.Studios]

@@radadaniel2726 this probably means add more antifreeze to the radiator reservoir

[@dragonsink6988]

Gas gauge is the number 1 issue along with the airbag malfunctions, they did do a recall on the airbags but never recalled the gas gauge for some dumb reason. I also found that the window switch on the drivers door to be malfunctioning too. They tend to go bad and nit let you roll the passenger side window down but will roll it up...... the worst one I've delt with so far is the battery drain issues from an electrical short in the steering column, and the key slot sticks down draining the battery over nite

[@AutoAutopsy]

Thanks for sharing. Airbag recall is definitely something to get addressed

[@dragonsink6988]

@@AutoAutopsy no problem. I would also like to add about the airbags that when you have them replaced make sure that they dont just reset the ecm to clear the code because some of the replacement air bags are bad, I ran into this issue and had to drive 4 hrs back to the dealership to have them replace the "new" airbag because it was malfunctioning and draining the battery, it's something to make sure of immediately because they wont fix it after 7 days for most places.

[@alecferland6397]

Literally, almost everything you mentioned happened to my '06 9-3. I ended up buying a '93 c900 turbo instead XD

[@AutoAutopsy]

Not a bad replacement by any means!

[@CTR207]

Alec Ferland oh you bought a real Saab well done sir ,

[@stratplayr6997]

Yep, dealing with two of these issues right now- recirculation motor and peeling interior buttons.

[@AutoAutopsy]

😩😩

[@XiAwesomeGodziX]

8/8 confirmed. RIP.

[@AutoAutopsy]

:(

[@keithwagner7754]

The peeling buttons was not a Saab problem, but a GM problem. This issue has been around since the 90's! I had several late 90's GM vehicles (Chevy, Pontiac) with the peeling buttons. The worst was on a '02 Cadillac.

[@mygius1]

you could have added amp1 (under seat) worst possible spot for such thing with air went holes

[@joellofquist2537]

wygekas pekla I know my 05 arc had it under the seat the 06 I have I believe it was removed... fflood car.. but that one was under the seat my 07 I don't think has the amp under the seat...

[@SJSOmar]

joel lofquist correct 07 doesn’t have the amp 1 under the seat I think they removed the whole optic fiber deal with these cars since they tend to go bad I have an 07 9-3 2.0T

[@joellofquist2537]

Saabrito 07 2.8 aero😍

[@AutoAutopsy]

Good addition!

[@msanseverino78]

I think almost every one gets that one . My 04 arc had that issue . The Bose system in my 09 aero is way better .

[@saabtech3510]

On the NG 9-3, in regions with moisture, the bottom coil on the front coil springs would break all the time. Saab was even replacing them for free out of warranty for a time. Also, the thrust bearings on top of the front coil springs were a common failure. Window regulator cable/pulley failure, headlight bulbs, front sway-bar links, wiper transmission linkage, front sidemarker lens leakage, rear brake calipers, are some more common issues on the NG 9-3.

[@AutoAutopsy]

Wow, thank you for sharing!

[@zachbrumm9020]

I have a 2003 saab 9-3 2.0T with an engine from an 06 9-3 2.0T and on cylinder 1, 3, and 4 i have around 175 psi of compression, but on cylinder #2 i have absolutely zero compression... did i crack my piston and/or blow my piston ring???

[@saabtech3510]

@@zachbrumm9020 Usually on the '06 engines it was a valve problem. But not usually zero compression. A tech can run air into the cylinder and see if it comes out the valves or bottom end.

[@broward4life]

I love my sabb 9'3 but it's been hell every since I got it..my sun roof went out first,then ac, now my valve gasket is leaking..no one wants to buy it so I'm stuck with it🙁🙁

[@AutoAutopsy]

I'm sorry :/ Wish I could help...

[@VencedorGamer]

The same timing chain, coil pack, and fuel level sensor issue is common on all the other 4 Cylinder GM vehicles from 2002 to 2008. I've dealt with these same issues including the "Ignition switch of death" which is similar to the (CIM issue) on my 07 Saturn Ion, and the coil pack issue on my mom's former 03 Ion. Had a friend had all the issues in your video accept for the button fading issue, on his 06 Chevy Cobalt SS.

[@AutoAutopsy]

Very interesting. Makes sense, given they have they same block

[@vylarian17]

Dang I wish I had a good friend who had the knowledge you do to walk through some of the issues mine has

[@AutoAutopsy]

I'm no expert, haha

[@purpleflight9083]

Same here , 2 months after I brought mine the interior fan stopped working , took it to a garage and I think the guy though woman here "money" he said I needed to replace the whole thing ! Good job i asked for my old parts before i paid , it was only the banana shaped relay (if that's what it's called) replacing, needless to say I dont use that garage anymore but not before I had replace back disc pads and calipers, front arms , rod ends , drop links hand brake cables list goes on .....just to stop this knocking noise , which never got fixed till a yr later and turned out to be the rubbers in the mid section holding exhaust were perished grrrrr And to add the labour to the fan being replace , when its 3 plastic screws ? To drop the glove box, an 10 min job I had looked up before hand was told hour and half work .

[@dg115]

I've had the balance chain replaced. Before i had it replaced it sounds and feels like its buzzing when you rev the engine. Luckily i know a good mechanic who knows Saab's inside out and didn't charge me too much to replace it.

[@AutoAutopsy]

Good to hear! Hopefully it won't happen again

[@joellofquist2537]

Tail light bulb harnesses melt or corrode I've noticed on multiple models

[@AutoAutopsy]

Thanks for sharing!

[@jetsamperes5762]

On the 9-3's with the 'ice' tail lights - they require a special red bulb. If you use the wrong bulb it will melt the housing.

[@CardboardSliver]

Or the coloured plastic falling off cause old glue

[@Kebabsauwz]

Im a mechanic and have worked alot with Saab 9-3 ss or sc. The only common issues I've came across is front springs breaking and a CIM unit once in a while :)

[@AutoAutopsy]

Thanks for sharing!

[@andrewlaw]

Springs going is rife amongst all cars these days. The quality of them is nowhere near they were like even 10 years ago. That and there's a proliferation of speed humps battering the crap out of them.

[@VoidRDM]

The only problem on this list I have encountered with my 9-3 is the wear on the plastic, even though my car has gone many many miles.

[@AutoAutopsy]

Nice! I think there's a couple years in there that are sort of a "sweet spot," where you won't encounter problems such as the intake valves or coils

[@babanarr3311]

Alexander Nilsson 156,000 miles and counting.. and the seat has worn out on the drivers door side on my car. 9.3 tti. Still very smooth and fast.

[@rebeccacephas239]

Well definitely have gas gauge, and coil pack issues thus far. Had the faulty knob to set time. How about the theft/door lock on sid and alarm sounding 10min after locking?

[@AutoAutopsy]

hmm, maybe start by just disconnecting the battery for a few seconds and reconnecting it to "reset" everything?

[@rebeccacephas239]

@@AutoAutopsy already tried that. Nothing reset except the clock in which took.me half an hour to.set with "wonky" knob. 🤣

[@paveltereshchuk357]

Helpful! Thank you!!!

[@AutoAutopsy]

:)

[@guysimoutthere3060]

Another one is the parking break locking up, and I’ve had the fuel gauge problem and then the paddle shifters sometimes decide not to work.

[@AutoAutopsy]

interesting; i haven't heard anything about the parking brake. I assume the cable just needs to be adjusted

[@guysimoutthere3060]

@@AutoAutopsy I think that must be the case as well

[@ikke2883]

The shark fin antenna is also a problem also the emblem fading :(

[@AutoAutopsy]

Ah yes, the emblems are a PAIN!

[@corni1947]

I bought new emblems on ebay for under £5

[@rodrigorosso7199]

I love my car and I loce your channel, great video. I would add the problem with the ECU Module touching the engine, a peace of rubber can solve it

[@loriannschwartz]

My power steering was leaking bad, more than just an annoyance. The mechanic told me it would cost anywhere from $500-$1300 to fix. I pulled the reservoir and replaced that o-ring as well as the copper washers on the banjo bolt on the line and it seems to have fixed my issues. When I was in there I did notice a broken check valve so I replaced that as well as the line also. I think I spent ten bucks total on parts and got it back up and runningl

[@AutoAutopsy]

Awesome! I was going to say that that's a gross overestimation for that repair. Glad you got it done yourself and saved money

[@deedowdell5347]

Where did you find the o-rings and the copper washer?

[@ted_kazinsky]

I've got a 2007 cadillac BLS, which is just a reskinned 2007 9-3 2.0t. Got it on wednesday, broke down on thursday, camshaft rotation sensor was fucked, otherwise it's an awesome car, love the sound, looks amazing and it's great to drive

[@AutoAutopsy]

🫡👊🏼

[@SinisterShelby]

Always blame Chevy always. 🤣🤣🤣.

[@AutoAutopsy]

Lol!

[@Alonso-xo8pu]

Sinister.Shelby blame killer mustangs

[@noecazares7549]

Lmao who says that

[@edim108]

I... might just have figured out why my engine is ticking like that. Damn. Might as well do new timing set since I'm already going there. Thx man.

[@AutoAutopsy]

:)

As a very active Saab member in sweden, never heard of, or very little, the problems you described (except the tear on buttons). When they key mechanism doesn't work it is actually much more common the module for the key itself is the problem, not the CIM module. There are some sprints that are gliding when turning the key that could collect dust and make bad contact, open it up and cleaning usually fix the problem. The fuel gage is more of a 9-3 OG problem. A fuel cleaner addon could actually fix that problem for good. Did that to my 9-3 OG, it was good for another 9 years and then I sold the car, still working after the fix. Commons issue on 9-3 would be; Front springs Amp1 Battery drain (because of amp1/cd-changer/icm), mainly the 2003 models. Broken heated seat

[@saabtech3510]

Here in the states the fuel sender is extremely common on the NG 9-3. I personally have changed dozens. The pumps last though, and would I not replace it unless extremely high mileage. On the OG 9-3, on the other hand, rarely did the senders go, but the fuel pumps failed like clockwork at around 128K miles.

[@antonypost19]

The power steering pump leaks are very common, along with leaking vacuum pumps. I work at a Saab specialist shop in Los Angeles and I'll tell you I change about 10-15 vacuum pumps(if the customer is lucky it's just the rear seal leaking and a new gasket will solve the problem.) But if the front seal is leaking oil it's very likely that you'll need to replace the pump all together, you could attempt to seal the original one back up(possible RTB gasket maker) but I would not trust that repair at all.

[@armantalavera804]

Thanks for all you tips on Saab. I have a Saab 9-3 2007, and having blue smoke issues. Sometimes its does it sometimes not. I notice that if I warm up the car, the smoke stops and no problem afterwards. I have changed the oil and sparks plugs. Was thinking of adding an oil leak sealer but not sure if it will help. I did a little investigating and found what seems like a seep or oil coming out from a mount connection just below the turbo which i believe is the connection from the catalytic converter to engine. I can see oil seeping out but once the car is warmed up, the leak stops. I search online and could not find any details or same issues with other Saab owners. Any advice before, i take it to a shop and spend a ton of money. I was hoping this is a DIY project that i can solve by myself. I do have some mechanical skills but the lack of info if oil should be there or not is what I'm uncertain. Thanks

[@AutoAutopsy]

Wish I could help but I’m not completely certain. Join Saab owners USA, saabs of America, and Saab 9-3 owners on Facebook and ask there!!

[@papi-champoo6033]

You forgot about the airbag light and message.

[@AutoAutopsy]

And the "passenger seatbelt" sensor is a tad annoying...

[@Lasaron97]

i removed the magnet from the seatbelt latch sensor, istead of trying to fix the weight sensor in the seat. so much easier

[@NickKokkinos]

Try dissconect and reconnect the little black wire under the driver seat. That fixed my airbag problem. It becomes loose when moving the chair too fast

[@aquashowaquaristik]

I just bought a 2006 Saab 9-3 SportCombi Vector. Luckily it has non of the here listed problems. 127k Miles and still running like fresh out of the factory. ;)

[@AutoAutopsy]

awesome!

[@randaldandal4894]

No mention of throttle body?? No mention of waterpump?? No mention coil springs???

[@AutoAutopsy]

I know the water pump is a ridiculously difficult job on thee motors..

[@znorc]

Some problems may be quite localised. Here in Sweden we go through coil springs like there's no tomorrow, but that seems to be common for a lot of modern cars. Interesting that the 9-5 doesn't suffer from the problem at all. While we're adding things to the list I'd like to contribute the engine ECU on the 4-cyls. They fail after a few years of use.

[@randaldandal4894]

www.eeuroparts.com/blog/7053/10-saab-9-3-common-problems/

[@granitepwnz6658]

I've done the water pump... twas ridiculous. I have the level sending issue now and need to replace the clutch. Also my buttons are illegible lol my AC blower motor squeals on lower settings and cabin filter box leaked water in the passenger floor

[@jamestompkins7816]

tom soder yea my throttle body has went out 3 times all with the same issue... on start up sometimes will rev way up running rough then go into limp mode till I clear it.. happens every week or so. Water pump had a tinyyyy leak. And ecu has been replaced once now throwing po245 and p0201-204

[@davejohnston5158]

Thanks for the great information. Key problems sometimes solvable by getting some WD40 in the workings as debris in it over time can mess up the contacts and it doesn't recognise you have turned the key. I have a 2007 1.8T converted to gas. Recently had problems with it cutting out after about 15 mins and then engine turns and won't start for about 5-mins been checking through the lpg system but wondered if anything else can cause this problem when the engine gets hot.

[@AutoAutopsy]

I couldn't give you a confident answer based off of that info; I would advise posting in a facebook group or searching forums

[@davejohnston5158]

@@AutoAutopsy Thanks for your response. I've decided to replace filters and service the lpg system for potential fuel starvation and ECU shutdown response and see where that goes. Thanks for your videos I've had 3 saabs and I just think they are well built and underrated but as they get older they become a bit of a challenge for the home mechanic.

[@davidreed928]

Headlights going out

[@AutoAutopsy]

for sure :(

[@albertdeguzman842]

Very informative presentation. I have a 2008 SAAB Aero 9-3 and experiencing the following problem. 1) Cornering headlight malfunction 2) The back up alarm doesn't beep 3) Loosing too much coolant 4) Setting off car alarm for no apparent reasons. Could you please advise. Thanks

[@AutoAutopsy]

Happy I could help. It really sounds like you need to get a tech2 scan done to see what codes come up. The headlight issue is likely a simple recalibration that’s needed. Coolant would be my biggest concern. You’d need to get under the car or poke around in the engine bay to see where it’s coming from!

[@williammiller7593]

Where did you get your Saab shirt from? I want one

[@AutoAutopsy]

Got it at Saab Onwer's Convention this year :) not sure if you can buy this one specifically online

[@cbkam1378]

Great video. Very informative. Can you do another video on Saab 95 Aero 2.3T most common problem? Did you have an video talking about this 2.3T engine reliability and common problem? Many thanks sir!

[@AutoAutopsy]

yep! Right here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/b4etmo1rqdt3p9k

[@rideli867]

You sound so depressed. You okay man?

[@jorgezaldivar184]

bad tiddy his videos are good but he sounds so depress.

[@AutoAutopsy]

Lol, I had just woken up form a nap! Probably wasn't the best time to film

[@zparparz5620]

I had a 2002 9-5 aero for years. Love love loved it. Bought a 99 9-3 awhile back and what a disappointment by comparison. The 9-5 is a much nicer, much more powerful car.

[@AutoAutopsy]

nice :)

[@oprisanantonio7728]

Hello ! I have a saab and I want to change the steering weel with a similar one. Can I do that and keep the same key? Thank you !

[@AutoAutopsy]

Did you send me a DM on instagram? I messaged you there :)

[@Celtic-Texan]

Don't even think about swapping out the front sway bar bushings, they're a royal PIA to take off and worse to put back in. As with many things on this car Saab decided to place everything millimeters apart giving almost no room to squeeze in a tool to work on most things around the engine bay. The two piece bushing set up is what makes it even harder to deal with, no way to get any leverage to get the bottom bushing to slide in and clamp in place. After getting the passenger side complete I decided to hold off for another day doing the driver side since there's no upper access to the front bolt due to the steering box is in the way. Ugh.

[@AutoAutopsy]

wow, sorry to hear about that....

[@spectralcav]

I've just done these and realised when I had the new bushes that the two piece items were going to be trouble (they're really stiff and the internal diameter is much smaller than the sway bar). I decided to convert to the older single piece bushes (much cheaper to buy) and got the correct clamps/braces for those bushings. With those parts the job was actually not too bad but I did swap the front bolts for longer hex-head bolts to make tightening back down whilst compressing the bushes a little easier.

[@80.8fbettaaquatic8]

The hardest part about fixing the cim. Is getting windows xp😄

[@AutoAutopsy]

Lol

[@Stephen-gp8yi]

My coil packs did around 72k miles which is good considering meant to be changed every 60k!

[@AutoAutopsy]

nice

[@vanquisv12]

No mames pues la mayoría de las cosas que mencionas les ocurre a todos los autos es normal

[@juanitosuriel6931]

Sorry Memo,esto no les pasa a la mayoria de carros, a la mayoría de los carros europeos si es verdad que son basura, soy mecanico por mas de 25 años y se lo que te digo.Si quieres un carro o troka que dure y dure trata toyota or honda.

[@TheWatchman879]

Malfunctioning alarm in my 2006 aero v6. When set, it goes off randomly so the doors have to be locked manually until I find time to disconnect the unit. I've searched for a replacement with no luck so far.

[@AutoAutopsy]

You're looking for a replacement what exactly? Might be a good idea to post about this in a FB group!

[@TheWatchman879]

@@AutoAutopsy Not sure of the part number yet until I get to it. It's the alarm unit under the left front mud guard on the driver's side. I've found videos on the problem and kits to rebuild, but I would rather find a replacement. I'm not a FB guy, but thanks for the suggestion.

[@xmajesticmoosex]

lmao my saab has 6/8 of these problems...

[@AutoAutopsy]

:(

[@merashad]

I generally have problems with the power locks. When unlocking my SAABs, I would have to resync my lock with the rest of car. The keys are also a problem as they are soft. They will damage very easily. The buttons are the most annoying one.

[@AutoAutopsy]

Very interesting, thanks for sharing!

[@kiwitv4426]

Crankshaft Position Sensor... apparently it's pretty common. Bought my SAAB 9-3 Vector 2005 two days ago and it wouldnt start when I left the supermarket today. After some research I came to the conclusion that it's the CPS. Ordered a new one for 50 euro. Hoping it solves the problem.

[@aleksandermichaowski7885]

One of the common problem is the ECU at b207 engines. Because of high temperatures it often falls down

[@AutoAutopsy]

They can go bad after time for sure

[@magicmoon4179]

I have 1 but is giving me lots of problems and I don't what to do, 1 fan stop working, hard start, smoke white, and water no circulation 😥

[@AutoAutopsy]

I’d join some saab Facebook groups and seek some help.

[@alexikrystal9451]

Great video. Thank you!

[@AutoAutopsy]

thanks!

[@manolodsv1]

9-3 2008 B207L - the electric fan from the burned radiator including the electric fan control unit twice within 4 years when the outside temperature is high.

[@AutoAutopsy]

wow, haven't heard of that before

[@lorddiablo8575]

I have a 2006 9-3, as of today, perhaps I am lucky....as all 8 small problems you mentioned in the video still NOT HAPPEN to mine... And I hope it won't bother me ! !

[@AutoAutopsy]

NICE! :)

[@BimmerBoy007]

Here are some problems ive ran into with my 06 aero. driver seat belt not retracting, leaky coolant resevoir, leaky power steering, steering wheel lock module left the car needing towed. 5+ batteries in two years, squeaky front suspension, coil packs, fuel level sensor, door locks are wacked, peely buttons, light sockets corroded, thermostat, i get random stability control failure messages that go away and lastly my tranny is starting to show signs of slipping.

[@BimmerBoy007]

Oh and recirculation motor clicking

[@BimmerBoy007]

Freon leaks too

[@BimmerBoy007]

Button on the trunk to open it doesn't work and the amp below the driver seat stopped working.

[@AutoAutopsy]

Thanks for sharing! If it's an 06 Aero, it has a different motor than the one I'm referring to here. Check out my channel, I made another version of this video with the 2.8 motor a few weeks ago!

[@tomhubbard2947]

I have a 2006 saab 93 2.ot.. i love this car.. it has around 160000 and when i try to start it. It makes a whinning sound and wouldnt start.. i thought it was the starter because my battery was good..Well replaced the starter and it still does it... whinning sound and wont start

[@AutoAutopsy]

I would post about this on a Saab Facebook group. Best chance to get a helpful answer!

[@Kenjh71]

I can add a couple: - halogen head light bulbs blowing - less than optimal battery = electronic issues of every kind - the indicator tick tock can't keep the rhythm. At every traffic light I'm "not quite my tempo"... LOL

[@AutoAutopsy]

The headlights can be programmed with a tech2 so the switch actually works. I used to go through bulbs twice a year until I finally bought a tech2 to program that switch

[@7667neko]

Thank you! Now I know what to look for when buying my first Saab.

[@AutoAutopsy]

:)

[@05Hogsrule]

Question; at the 3:07 mark on the counter, the dash has a built-in drink holder. Can you do a segment on how to break that down and get at it to repair or un-stick it? I have a 2007 9-3 2.0T, and i have a mechanic telling me it will cost over 200 bucks for him to take the dash apart just to get at the drink holder; the kind that you push the button and the screw-activated spring will push out the stem and the holder will them deploy and twist to an open holder for a mug. I had a friend that either pushed the device too far in (and won't admit it) or the alignment is off and the spring-stem is just blocked preventing the device to open. How to fix without getting jacked by a mechanic? Replace or just repair (the mis-alignment). Also, while assigned and working in Germany, I had a SAAB dealer selling the HIRSCH programs to enhance performance/Horsepower to the same car. Now that I am back in the US, I had another mechanic not know how to really tune-up the engine and I am sure the car no longer has the 245+ Horsepower given by the HIRSCH software. I would like to find someone in the Miami area that knows what they are doing with HIRSCH.

[@AutoAutopsy]

cup holder replacement video here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/h4bHanxjd9lmrJI

[@Themadscientist1969]

Love my SAAB cars also, but you can really tell the difference in quality (GM), between my 01 9-5 aero and my 04 9-3 linear..

[@AutoAutopsy]

that's also comparing a base model 9-3 to a top trim 9-5 which isn't exactly fair lol!

[@ftby59mikeD]

Yes, the salvage yard is your friend!.👍

[@AutoAutopsy]

Sure is!

[@menacefpv]

My second purchase after buying my 03 9-3ss was a Tech 2 Clone. The tech 2 pays for itself with the first CIM, or key you need to program. If you own a 9-3 you should really get a Tech 2, If not its cool you can pay someone like me to fix your car. :)

[@southdkstreet]

Michael Conte even if you have tech 2 you still security clearance to program the module,its not a case of just plug and play,clearence comes direct from sweden for cars of 2008 and on,pre 2008 it could be got from tis

[@menacefpv]

You do need clearance, which as stated below is very easy to obtain. TIS2000 is for 2007 down, and GlobalTIS supports later model cars. Both can be found relatively easily.

[@AutoAutopsy]

Yep, the Tech 2 is an incredible tool to have

[@robertrukidding3055]

Where did you find a Tech2 clone?

[@club_brokestatus5308]

What I have found in the 9-3 b207r aero if there is a tps sensor code and the car is breaking up under load and misfiring at the same time change you coil packs , my coils where my problem was 👍

[@AutoAutopsy]

nice

[@pattibaiocchetti8593]

Great video!! I just replaced the fuel pump and have the peeling button issue :-( Any words of wisdom regarding the replacing of the oil level sensor on a 2006 9-3 Aero? I've recently developed an oil leak but have no malfunctions of any kind...just the leak. I read somewhere to try some anaerobic sealant, otherwise replacing the sensor requires pulling the engine???

[@AutoAutopsy]

Not sure....I've got a limited knowledge on the V6's

[@pattibaiocchetti8593]

Thanks for the reply!!

[@stevenvictoria9568]

My engine started running like crap and started overheating at the same time. That annoying ratting sound coming from the timing chain got louder and when I open her up I found that the chain is about a tooth off. I've read that the water pump is run by the timing chain. Could all of this be caused from that chain? I'm worried the thing will blow up if i drive it anymore

[@AutoAutopsy]

I've heard the guides are something that should be replaced. My guess is that's the problem

[@stevenvictoria9568]

@@AutoAutopsy The valve cover is currently off and I'm gonna take a look at everything related to the chain. Don't know the car was treated by it's previous owner. Thanks for the reply :)

[@joemomma7]

The HVAC off to left of the glove compartment leaks, the radio amplifier under driver seat, clicking steering wheel, cracking trim throughout the car, lock malfunction, remote buttons slowly peeling until completely falling off along with the batteries, absolutely right about the coil packs, but the main one I hear about is the battery. You cannot get jumped off it can mess up the computer or just burn something up all together, it's hard to get the battery charged and then work because it seems like it needs a completely charged battery to even get it to crank, don't even try to jump somebody off. I got away with it three times but ever since I've tried after the third time, my battery completely screws up the point to where I have to trade it out. Key won't turn, key gets locked in the car. If I had to pick 7 then I think that will be it. I think that was 7. If so, then that was a total coincidence

[@AutoAutopsy]

lol. thanks for sharing